What’s Up Capital Connectors!

We made a change with the podcast and are now recording in person at The Rec.

We recorded our first episode in person today with Mickey Walker of the Salem Volcanoes and The Mavericks League.

It’ll be live on Wednesday.

Click here to subscribe so you don’t miss it. 🙂 

(And taking a moment to leave a review would be amazing. Right now we have 9 5 start reviews on Spotify. Can we double that number by next week??)

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Big Upgrades Coming to Four Salem Parks This Summer

Four neighborhood parks in Salem are getting major makeovers this summer, thanks to funding from the 2022 Safety and Livability Bond. At Hoover Park, crews will replace damaged tennis courts with the city’s first-ever soccer mini-pitch and install new basketball hoops. Highland Park will receive resurfaced courts, new fencing and lighting, and two dedicated pickleball courts with permanent nets, while keeping one tennis court.

Livingston Park is getting an all-new, expanded playground designed for children of all ages and abilities. Accessibility will be improved throughout the area, and new seating for caregivers will be added to support inclusive play and community connection.

Morningside Park will also see new, neighbor-selected playground equipment, upgraded paths, and an accessible picnic plaza. The multi-use court will be completely rebuilt with new fencing, a larger playing surface, and facilities for basketball, tennis, and pickleball. A drinking fountain will also be installed near the court.

While some areas will be temporarily closed during construction, the city appreciates residents’ patience and says these improvements reflect community input and a shared investment in safer, more welcoming public spaces. (City of Salem)

12 Reasons to Head to the Riverfront Park This Summer

June 7: Salem Pride Parade and Block Party
A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community with a parade, music, vendors, and drag performances. Runs from noon to 5 p.m., free admission.

June 14: Oregon Humane Society’s Doggie Dash
Pet festival and dog walk with food trucks, activities, and contests. Runs from 8:30AM to 1PM Festival is free; dog walk registration starts at $25.

June 21, 2025: Make Music Salem
This FREE, citywide music festival brings Salem to life with live performances by local musicians throughout the day. While the Gerry Frank | Salem Rotary Amphitheater at Riverfront Park hosts a central hub of activity, stages and pop-up performances can be found all across Salem — from sidewalks and parks to shops and cafes — as the community comes together to celebrate music in every corner of the city.

June 27-29: World Beat Festival
Multicultural festival with music, dance, and food from over 70 nations. Tickets: $10/day or $15 for three days; free for kids 14 and under and SNAP card holders. Hours: Friday 5–11PM, Saturday from 9:45AM, Sunday 11AM–6PM

July 11: Movies in the Park - Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire
Movies in the Park are FREE, family-friendly screenings at the Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets or low-back chairs. Donations are welcome to support the continuation of this community event. 9PM

July 20: Ironman 70.3
Triathlon with swimming, biking, and running, centered at Riverfront Park. Spectating is free; participant registration is sold out. Runs from 6:15AM to 3:45PM

July 25: Movies in the Park - Inside Out 2
Journey back into the mind of Riley as new emotions emerge, navigating the complexities of growing up. A heartwarming sequel that delves deeper into emotional intelligence and self-discovery. 8:45PM

August 2: Riverfront Family Fest
A FREE health and safety fair with 65+ vendors, hands-on activities, and fun for all ages. Held annually, it draws thousands of families for a lively day of community, wellness, and play. 10AM-2PM

August 8: Movies in the Park - The Wild Robot
After a shipwreck, a robot named Roz finds herself on a remote island, learning to adapt and connect with the local wildlife. A touching tale of survival, friendship, and the intersection of technology and nature. 8:30PM

August 22–24, 2025: Capital City Retro Fest
3-night music festival at the Gerry Frank Salem Rotary Amphitheater featuring tribute bands for 70s, 80s, and 90s acts.

August 22 • Gates 6PM, Music 7PM
🎤 Grand Royale (Beastie Boys), Nevermind (Nirvana), Jar of Lies (Alice In Chains)

August 23 • Gates 6PM, Music 7PM
🎸 Stone In Love (Journey), Shoot to Thrill (AC/DC), Ramble On (Led Zeppelin)

August 24 • Gates 4PM, Music 5PM
🎶 Taken By The Sky (Fleetwood Mac), Eagle Eyes (Eagles), Band After Midnight (ABBA))

August 29: Movies in the Park - Wicked
Explore the untold story of the witches of Oz, focusing on the unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda. A captivating musical that reimagines a classic tale from a new perspective. 8PM

August 31: Punx in the Park
A FREE, youth-powered celebration at Riverfront Park and Amphitheater, open to the public and packed with punk energy. Enjoy free meals for ages 11–18 from local food trucks, live performances by youth-selected punk bands, 50+ community booths, mentorship from “Elder Punx,” youth speakers, a free clothing closet, DIY stations like Build-a-Punk Hair and Battle Vest tents, band meet-and-greets, merch, and more.

September 20: Pride in the Park
Celebrate the LGBTQIA2S+ community with over 200 booths featuring handmade goods from queer vendors, free resources, live entertainment, food trucks, and inclusive activities for all ages.

Friday, June 6

🖼️Salem Art Walk • Downtown Salem • 5PM

🎶Make Music Salem Countdown Dance Party • Taproot Downtown • 7PM - 11:30PM

🎶Bottleneck Blues Band • Santiam Brewing, The BAD Space • 8PM

Saturday, June 7

💸Community Garage Sale Day • Across Salem • ALL DAY

🏃‍♀️‍➡️Salem STRIDE 5K • Bush’s Pasture Park Phillip’s Field • 9AM

🌈Pride Parade & Block Party • Downtown Salem • 11:15AM - 5PM

🏃‍♂️‍➡️Salem Hash House Harriers: Pride Run 5K • Alibi Bar & Grill • 1PM

🍷Chemeketa Cellars Barrel Tasting • 215 Doaks Ferry Rd NW • 1PM

🏴‍☠️The Goonies 40th Anniversary screening • Salem Cinema, 1127 Broadway St NE • 2:45PM

🐶PET OF THE WEEK: Porter

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Thanks for keeping up with Salem this week!

Spotted something interesting in town? Drop us a note at [email protected] We love hearing from you.

See you next Thursday,

Ernie